Jazeera in the Sun

This is the third book about Jazeera, a little Indian girl who lives in England and her family. In this new story Jazeera returns to India for the first time since she was a baby and she is reunited with her beloved Nani (grandmother) and other relatives in Delhi. Jazeera's response to the experiences of Delhi, partly recorded in her own words in her diary, is perfectly captured with an honesty and humour that is the mark of an accomplished writer. Heat, beggars, work, play and the ups and downs of a close family coming to terms with each other again are all seen through her eyes. The last chapter, which describes Nani's death and Jazeera's feelings of loss yet acceptance, is a small masterpiece. Paul Howard's deft and sensitive pencil illustrations enhance the story. Any child would be enriched by this book. Do read it.